Kelly McCrimmon criticizes Toronto Maple Leafs fans over Mitch Marner NHL success with Vegas Golden Knights

The Vegas Golden Knights are headed to the Stanley Cup Final, and Mitch Marner has been a big part of the club’s playoff run. The former Toronto Maple Leafs star remains in the spotlight with comments from general manager Kelly McCrimmon making headlines around the NHL news cycle.

McCrimmon recently appeared on TSN’s OverDrive and pushed back against criticism of Marner, suggesting some Toronto supporters need to move on from the winger’s success after he left. The comments have been one of the main talking points of the NHL updates and playoff discussions.

Kelly McCrimmon addresses Mitch Marner criticism from Toronto Maple Leafs fans

Kelly McCrimmon had a message for critics of Mitch Marner after the Toronto Maple Leafs forward was booed by fans in a 5-2 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights.

“He's been really good all year," said Kelly McCrimmon. Vegas Golden Knights executives rejected the notion that Marner had suddenly elevated his game in the postseason. McCrimmon said the forward played important roles in several capacities during the year, including time at center when injuries hit the roster.

“I know it's Toronto, I know it's Mitch Marner, I know it's polarizing, but for me it's a little bit about the guy's ex girlfriend moving away and doing well,” McCrimmon said.

Playoff success usually takes contributions from multiple players rather than relying heavily on a few stars, said the general manager. Vegas has been able to spread the workload through the lineup, making for a more balanced approach in key postseason games, he said.

In his comments, McCrimmon was comparing the Golden Knights’ roster building to that of the Toronto Maple Leafs, stressing the importance of contributions from the entire team in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Marner has been scrutinised for years for his playoff performances in Toronto, despite being one of the most productive offensive players in the NHL. His run to the Stanley Cup Final with the Vegas Golden Knights has revived discussion about whether the forward’s criticism was too harsh.

Marner’s play, and McCrimmon’s defence of his player, is sure to be a big topic of conversation in the NHL news roundup coverage as the Golden Knights prepare for hockey’s biggest stage.

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